East Sydney cultural hub on the way

The City of Sydney Council has confirmed the double-barrelled refurbishment of the Albert Sloss Reserve and Heffron Hall in Darlinghurst next year.

Lord Mayor Clover Moore said the multipurpose community spaces – at the corner of Palmer and Burton Streets – will accompany the city’s newest theatre, Eternity Playhouse. The Playhouse will open in November, and new childcare and community facilities are also planned for 277 Bourke St.

“The City’s redesign of Albert Sloss Reserve and Heffron Hall, along with the recent transformation of Eternity Playhouse, will provide a great new cultural and community heart for the area and Sydney,” said Ms Moore.

The planned improvements for Albert Sloss Reserve include new and improved entries from Palmer St and new play equipment including swings and a climbing structure.

“Creating a network of activity hubs will provide much-needed places for the growing local community to meet, work, play, learn and be creative,” said Ms Moore.

“East Sydney will soon be home to a modern 200-seat theatre and creative arts centre with a bar and café, a multipurpose community facility and a new outdoor play space.”

A new deck area at Albert Sloss Reserve will be erected for an out of school hours care service, and for community use outside these hours. There will also be more grassed areas and trees to provide welcome shade, new paths, outdoor seats, and energy efficient lights to make it safer at night.

The works form part of the $9 million funding set aside for Heffron Hall’s refurbishment.

The development application for Heffron Hall was lodged last month and includes plans for better out of school hours care facilities, more multipurpose hire spaces, a new kitchen, and new foyer with lift access. The building will also be opened up to more natural light, making it more environmentally sustainable.

Albert Sloss Reserve design plans were developed after consultation with the community in February. Construction of both Heffron Hall and Albert Sloss Reserve is due to start early next year.

By Marcus Braid